Hong Kong’s entrepreneurial spirit took center stage this week as City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) hosted the HK Tech 300 Expo, a dynamic showcase of cutting-edge start-ups and groundbreaking technologies. The two-day event, held on campus, brought together nearly 300 incubated ventures, highlighting how academic research transforms into real-world solutions with global impact.
Alongside the expo, CityUHK launched the HK Tech 300 International Start-up Competition, a bold initiative to connect innovators across borders and tackle pressing challenges through collaboration.
A Hub for Start-Up Success
Since its inception in 2021, HK Tech 300—CityUHK’s flagship entrepreneurship program—has nurtured over 900 start-ups, with more than 200 receiving up to HK$1 million in angel funding. Beyond financial backing, the program provides mentorship from 250 industry leaders, patent support, and partnerships with 100+ public and private institutions, creating a thriving ecosystem for emerging businesses.
The expo featured innovations across four key sectors:
- Biotech & Health
- ICT & AI
- Advanced Tech & ESG
- Fintech
From AI-driven diagnostics to sustainable energy solutions, the event demonstrated Hong Kong’s growing influence as a global innovation hub.
Expanding Horizons: The HK Tech 300 International Competition
Building on its success in Hong Kong and mainland China, HK Tech 300 is now going global. The newly announced International Start-up Competition will partner with 11 universities and five local organizations across nine regions, including Brunei, Hungary, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
The competition aims to attract top talent to Hong Kong and mainland China, leveraging the city’s unique position as a gateway for cross-border innovation. By fostering international collaboration, CityUHK hopes to accelerate solutions for challenges like climate change, healthcare access, and digital transformation.
Leadership and Global Support
The expo’s opening ceremony was attended by key figures, including Professor Sun Dong, Hong Kong’s Secretary for Innovation, Technology, and Industry, and Professor Freddy Boey, President of CityUHK. Diplomats from Thailand and Vietnam, alongside representatives from 12 mainland Chinese cities, underscored the event’s international significance.
With its expanding network and commitment to nurturing talent, HK Tech 300 is proving that Hong Kong remains at the forefront of technology, entrepreneurship, and social impact. As the program grows, so does its potential to shape a smarter, more sustainable future.
